GOVERNMENT AND SGEU RATIFY PUBLIC SERVICE AGREEMENT

The tentative settlement between the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Government and General Employees' Union (SGEU) has been ratified by both parties.

"It has been accepted by Cabinet, and I have been informed that the majority of SGEU members have also voted in favour of it," Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission Pat Atkinson said. "This is a fair collective agreement, for the members of the SGEU and for the people of this province, and I am pleased that we now have a deal. I am also pleased that this agreement was achieved without job action or disruption of services to the public."

The agreement covers about 10,000 public service workers in eighteen government departments, and extends from October 1st, 2003 to September 30th, 2006.

"I would like to recognize all the hard work done by both parties," Atkinson said. "Many individuals gave an enormous amount of time and energy to ensure this settlement was achieved. I would also like to recognize government employees around the province. We value the work they do and the excellent service they provide to the people of Saskatchewan."

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For More Information, Contact:

Shelley Banks Public Service Commission Regina Phone: (306) 787-6479